Vigo County lawmakers: State awards educator scholarship to local students

Posted by: Matt Stachler  | Monday, July 7, 2025

STATEHOUSE (July 7, 2025) – Vigo County students preparing to become teachers are among this year's recipients of the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to local lawmakers.

The scholarship program, established in 2016 through legislation passed by the Indiana General Assembly, awards a renewable scholarship of up to $10,000 per year (up to $40,000 total) to high-achieving high school and college students who agree to teach in an eligible Indiana school for five years. A record-breaking 1,091 students applied for the 2025-2026 Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, with nearly 300 scholarships awarded.

"These young Hoosiers are choosing a career of purpose and public service," said State Rep. Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville). "They're preparing to guide students and shape minds, and I commend their decision to teach right here in Indiana."

This year, these local students were among the scholarship recipients:

  • Brianna Higginbotham, West Vigo High School;
  • Katin Keith, West Vigo High School; and
  • Kyleigh Moore, Terre Haute North Vigo High School.

"These scholarships recognize hard work in the classroom and a commitment to teaching," said State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute). "We're proud of these students for taking the first step toward a rewarding career in education."

State Rep. Tim Yocum (R-Clinton) said those qualifying for the scholarship must graduate in the top 20 percent of their high school class, earn a score in the 20th percentile on the SAT or ACT, or have a cumulative grade point average of at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

"Teaching is one of the most important jobs, and these students are choosing to make a difference," Yocum said. "This scholarship helps set them up for long-term success building a career and leading a classroom."

To learn more and apply for the next round of scholarships opening in the fall, visit LearnMoreIndiana.org/nextteacher. Questions may be directed to NextTeacher@che.in.gov.

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State Rep. Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville) represents House District 45,
which includes all of Greene and Sullivan counties, and portions of Daviess, Knox and Vigo counties.
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here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) represents House District 46,
which includes all of Owen County, and portions of Clay, Monroe and Vigo counties.
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here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Tim Yocum (R-Clinton) represents House District 42, which includes
all of Parke and Vermillion counties, and portions of Clay, Fountain and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.